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Student Article

Six Terrible Inventions That Killed Their Creators

By: Dr. Claire Asher
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Dumb ways to die: inventor edition.

The article "Six Terrible Inventions That Killed Their Creators" from BBC Science Focus recounts the tragic tales of inventors who died due to their own inventions. From Karel Soucek's shock-absorbent barrel to Henry Smolinski's flying car, these stories highlight the risks and dangers faced by those who push the boundaries of innovation.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
3-56-89-12
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Engineering and Technology
Keywords
inventorstragic deathsinventionsKarel SoucekHenry Smolinski
A car with airplane wings on a runway
© Doug Duncan

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

1
Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-600L
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2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 600-800L
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3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 800-1000L
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